Virgil van Dijk is proving that age is just a number.
At 35 years old, the Liverpool captain continues to look like one of the most dependable centre-backs in football, leading both club and country with the authority and consistency that have defined his career.
For Liverpool, Van Dijk has been an ever-present figure in the Premier League this season, starting all five league matches and completing every minute. His experience, positioning, composure and leadership remain hugely important to a Liverpool side looking to compete on every front. (Premier League)
With the Netherlands, his numbers are even more impressive. Van Dijk has started every one of their 12 matches in 2026 and has played 1,020 minutes, the most of any Dutch player this year. He has also contributed three goals and an assist for his country during the calendar year. (Opta Analyst)
And the latest international break was something special. Van Dijk played every minute of four Netherlands matches in just 11 days, completing 360 minutes of football before celebrating his 100th international appearance against Serbia. He captained the Dutch to a 2–1 victory and became only the 11th Dutch male player to reach the century of caps. (This Is Anfield)
He even found the net against Greece during the international window, helping the Netherlands fight back from 2–0 down to earn a 2–2 draw. (Reuters)
What makes this even crazier is his workload. Van Dijk is not simply making occasional appearances because of his age. He is still being trusted to play major minutes, start important matches and carry huge leadership responsibilities for both Liverpool and the Netherlands.
The Liverpool captaincy remains another major part of his influence. He has repeatedly spoken about how much he values leading the team and carrying the responsibility of representing the club and its supporters.
And now, instead of slowing down, Van Dijk has hinted that he could continue with the Netherlands towards Euro 2028.
At 35, many defenders would already be thinking about retirement.
Van Dijk appears to be thinking about what comes next.
Still starting.
Still leading.
Still scoring.
Still playing almost every minute.
Still wearing the armband.
The question is no longer whether Virgil van Dijk can perform at 35.
The real question is: how long can this machine keep going?
